Jail guards hold positions of importance. These individuals keep inmates apart from the rest of society so they will no longer harm anyone.
Correctional officers put themselves in danger every time they clock in. Working with criminals threatens the health of prison employees in unique ways.
Physical injuries
Many inmates have an us-versus-them attitude. They take any opportunity to hurt those in authority. Assaults are commonplace. Attacks involving improvised devices are especially concerning.
Long shifts pose another concern. Jails have a lot of stairs. Tumbling down them becomes more probable when exhaustion takes over. A fall could lead to a traumatic brain injury or a spinal fracture ending in paralysis.
The perils of weariness do not end there. Driving home sleepy may result in a car wreck. The position also requires the lifting of heavy objects. Muscle tears and tendon rips become more likely without rest.
Infectious diseases
Inmates often have diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. Exposure to pathogens remains worrisome. Some inmates test positive for tuberculosis. All it takes to spread is a cough or sneeze.
Other biohazards, such as fecal matter, are weapons to prisoners. Without safety equipment, cleaning a cell can become a life-altering event.
Environmental problems
Sadly, some prison infrastructure remains inadequate and outdated. Spending time in a building with asbestos may lead to cancer. Constant trips to the prison yard during cold weather might cause pneumonia.
Stress also triggers health concerns. The pressure of the occupation often weighs on longtime staffers. Heart trouble and cardiovascular disease can result.
Vulnerability is part and parcel of prison guard life. Those who serve society in this capacity must protect themselves from myriad threats.